Basiyalo keen on 7s challenge
Basiyalo received the unexpected call from Drua head coach Glen Jackson on Monday, informing him that Fiji men’s rugby sevens coach, Osea Kolinisau wanted him to join the training squad.
Friday 07 March 2025 | 11:54
Sikeli Basiyalo had no idea that he was to be given an opportunity to join the Fiji men’s rugby sevens training squad.
The 21-year-old is part of the Fijian Drua development squad based in Legalega, Nadi.
He played for the Drua sevens team during the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens at Lawaqa Park, Sigatoka, in January.
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Basiyalo received the unexpected call from Drua head coach Glen Jackson on Monday, informing him that Fiji men’s rugby sevens coach, Osea Kolinisau wanted him to join the training squad.
Basiyalo said he is excited about the opportunity.
“Happy to be part of the sevens team—it’s going well,” he told FRU Media.
“Playing sevens is a whole different challenge, the speed of the game is much higher than what I’m used to.
“When I was called, I didn’t believe it at first, but I was actually happy and keen.
“For a long time, I wanted to try and play 7s as well. Glad that I am able to come here and learn a lot of things,” Basiyalo added.
Despite the adjustment period, he remains focused on making the most of his time in camp, aiming to absorb as much as possible from the experienced squad members.
“My goal is to learn everything I can so I can take it back to the Drua and improve my game,” he added.
Also joining Basiyalo at the Fiji men’s rugby sevens training squad is his Drua team-mate Aisea Nawai.
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